Seven Islands Loop Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Fishing · River/Creek

The only restrooms located in the park are at the Bluebird Barn at the entrance of the park. There is not a proper visitor center, so there is no place to buy snacks or drinks. The trail to Seven Islands Loop Trail is exposed, so wear proper sun protection.

Fishing from the bridge is not permitted. Please be aware that water under the bridge is very shallow, diving and swimming are prohibited for your safety. You'll need a valid fishing license if you want to fish in the park.

The Seven Islands Loop Trail can be accessed by hiking down the Bobwhite Accessible Trail from the Bluebird Barn parking area for roughly 0.4 miles. At the junction with the trail, you can hike in either direction. Turning to the right, the trail works its way through the woods and passes the junction with the Upland Trail Inner Loop at 0.15 miles. The trail passes a seasonal pond that could have water in it if it has been raining and bends to the left.

It works its way back to the bridge and passes underneath the bridge. Here, you can enjoy views of the river and some artwork of some birds that are under the bridge. On the other side of the bridge, there is a connector trail to the left that leads up to the Bobwhite Accessible Trail if you need to head back to the parking area.

Continuing straight ahead, the trail borders the French Broad River, where you can fish or enjoy the views if you want to. After a 1/4 of a mile from the bridge, the trail turns to the left and skirts the edge of the meadow before it enters the woods again after another 1/4 of a mile. The trail arrives at a junction where, if you go to the right, the trail leads up to the Kelly Lane Greenway that leads to the Green House and Maple Leaf Barn.

Taking a left at the junction, the trail works its way through the woods before arriving back at the Bobwhite Accessible Trail. From here, you can take a right and go back to your vehicle at the parking lot, or take a left and follow the trail to the bridge and explore more of the French Broad River.